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Have a Safe Fourth of July!
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The Fourth of July is a really difficult time for me. 24 years ago, my sister, my only sibling, was killed in a motorcycle accident. On July 4th, she was riding on the back of her fiancee's 1958 Panhead when a 19-year-old kid pulled out in front of them. Suzy was thrown off and flew about 50 feet before landing on her head. She would have died regardless of whether she wore a helmet or not. She hung on, in a coma, until July 11th, 1985, when the doctors pronounced her brain dead.
On July 20th, her little boy turned two years old.
The following is taken from the Motorcycle Safety Foundation. Even if you've been riding for the last thirty years, please read through this - because the other drivers on the road with you probably didn't.
QUICK TIPS: General Guidelines For Riding A Motorcycle Safely Be visible: • Remember that motorists often have trouble seeing motorcycles and reacting in time. • Make sure your headlight works and is on day and night. • Use reflective strips or decals on your clothing and on your motorcycle. • Be aware of the blind spots cars and trucks have. • Flash your brake light when you are slowing down and before stopping. • If a motorist doesn’t see you, don’t be afraid to use your horn. Dress for safety: • Wear a quality helmet and eye protection. • Wear bright clothing and a light-colored helmet. • Wear leather or other thick, protective clothing. • Choose long sleeves and pants, over-the-ankle boots, and gloves. • Remember – the only thing between you and the road is your protective gear. Apply effective mental strategies: • Constantly search the road for changing conditions. Use MSF’s Search, Evaluate, Execute strategy (SEESM) to increase time and space safety margins. • Give yourself space and time to respond to other motorists’ actions. • Give other motorists time and space to respond to you. • Use lane positioning to be seen; ride in the part of a lane where you are most visible. • Watch for turning vehicles. • Signal your next move in advance. • Avoid weaving between lanes. • Pretend you’re invisible, and ride extra defensively. • Don't ride when you are tired or under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. • Know and follow the rules of the road, and stick to the speed limit. Know your bike and how to use it: • Get formal training and take refresher courses. • Call 800.446.9227 or visit www.msf-usa.org to locate the Motorcycle Safety Foundation hands-on RiderCourseSM nearest you. • Practice. Develop your riding techniques before going into heavy traffic. Know how to handle your bike in conditions such as wet or sandy roads, high winds, and uneven surfaces. Remember: Give yourself space. People driving cars often just don’t see motorcycles. Even when drivers do see you, chances are they’ve never been on a motorcycle and can’t properly judge your speed.
www.msf-usa.org 10/06
I grew up on motorcycles and dirt bikes - and the Basic Rider Safety Course is really good - whether you are new to riding or if you're an old pro. I took it last year.
Motorcycle Dial-A-Ride - This is who to call if you live in Minnesota and have had too much to drink. I'm sure there are others out there if you're not from around here. They will give you a ride and trailer your bike to your home if it's not too far away (or to a hotel). These are all good guys, a lot of our ABATE members volunteer their time to this cause to keep you all safe. They don't get paid. They also ride their own bikes so you know they know how to load one onto a trailer - more than can be said by the local tow truck.
It's fun to party & tie one on every now and then, just plan ahead so you don't have to ride drunk. You are on the internet now, check out who provides this service in your area - & have a great, SAFE Fourth of July! 
Tags: July Safe Accident Suzy Holte MSF Motorcycle Safety Foundation Dial-A
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